Connor Hellebuyck to forgo eligibility, join IceCaps

TORONTO -- Connor Hellebuyck is ready to begin his education as a professional hockey player.

Hellebuyck, a fifth-round pick (130th overall) of the Winnipeg Jets in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, is leaving the University of Massachusetts-Lowell after two seasons, signing a three-year, two-way entry-level deal on Saturday that comes with an average annual value of $925,000.

Hellebuyck, 20, is expected to join the St. John's IceCaps of the American Hockey League in the next few days.

"It's something that as an organization, we're very excited to have him as a prospect. Now we're really excited about the opportunity to have the development side turn towards pro," Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff said. "He's a big guy, he's very poised, very calm in the net. He's athletic, but he's not a guy that jumps around. His size and his composure is something that really stands out in his game, really helps him to be in position at all times.

"It will be good for him to get challenged now at the next level."

Hellebuyck was 38-12-2 with a 1.60 goals against average, a.946 save percentage and 12 shutouts in 53 games over two seasons with the River Hawks, guiding the squad to consecutive Hockey East titles and helping them earn their first berth in the NCAA Frozen Four in 2013.

"He's been a guy that has let the playing do the talking for him," said Cheveldayoff.

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Connor Hellebuyck to forgo eligibility, join IceCaps

TORONTO -- Connor Hellebuyck is ready to begin his education as a professional hockey player.

Hellebuyck, a fifth-round pick (130th overall) of the Winnipeg Jets in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, is leaving the University of Massachusetts-Lowell after two seasons, signing a three-year, two-way entry-level deal on Saturday that comes with an average annual value of $925,000.

Hellebuyck, 20, is expected to join the St. John's IceCaps of the American Hockey League in the next few days.

"It's something that as an organization, we're very excited to have him as a prospect. Now we're really excited about the opportunity to have the development side turn towards pro," Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff said. "He's a big guy, he's very poised, very calm in the net. He's athletic, but he's not a guy that jumps around. His size and his composure is something that really stands out in his game, really helps him to be in position at all times.